The state of Nevada does not currently offer the lottery. In fact, there is a lottery prohibition in the state constitution, where Article 4, Section 24 states that “no lottery may be authorized by this state, nor may lottery tickets be sold”.
Section 24 continues to say that “The State and the political subdivisions thereof shall not operate a lottery. The Legislature may authorize persons engaged in charitable activities or activities not for profit to operate a lottery in the form of a raffle or drawing on their own behalf. All proceeds of the lottery, less expenses directly related to the operation of the lottery, must be used only to benefit charitable or nonprofit activities in this State. A charitable or nonprofit organization shall not employ or otherwise engage any person to organize or operate its lottery for compensation. The Legislature may provide by law for the regulation of such lotteries.”
The lottery prohibition has actually been in effect since 1864 when Nevada became a state.
Will Nevada Ever Have a State Lottery?
The strength of the state’s casino commission will make it an uphill battle, however Nevada legislators may be making some headway. Thirty previous attempts have failed, but a joint resolution called AJR5 passed during the 2023 legislative session.
Unfortunately, the next legislative session in Nevada is not until 2025. The proposed amendment to the Nevada state constitution would need to be approved in two consecutive sessions.
The current lottery prohibition is effective through November 23, 2026. If the proposed amendment is able to make it through the 2025 session, it would be put to a vote in the 2026 General Election.
The current plan is for lottery proceeds to go towards mental health initiatives for Nevadans.
Nevada Lottery Options
While Nevada does not have a lottery, the state does border Arizona and California, which both offer the lottery, including multi-state drawing like Powerball and Mega Millions.
Las Vegas residents often flock to The Lotto Store in Nipton, California, just outside of Primm along the Nevada-California border. Wait times in excess of several hours are possible if the Powerball or Mega Millions drawings are large enough.
Nevada Lottery FAQ
Nevada is one of five states without a lottery. Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, and Utah are the others.
The state constitution of 1864 prohibited the creation of a lottery and many failed attempts to pass an amendment have occurred over the years. Nevada has dozens of casinos and legalized sports betting, so gamblers can get their fill elsewhere.
Nevada is one of five states without a lottery. Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, and Utah are the others.
The state constitution of 1864 prohibited the creation of a lottery and many failed attempts to pass an amendment have occurred over the years. Nevada has dozens of casinos and legalized sports betting, so gamblers can get their fill elsewhere.